The Curious World of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly (review)

A new century has just arrived, and 1900 seems to promise Calpurnia Tate a host of fresh possibilities. Ever since she and her naturalist grandfather discovered a new species of vetch (in The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate, BCCB 7/09), their relationship has deepened into true friendship, and Calpurnia alone among the grandchildren has earned his affection and respect. Under his tutelage, the thirteen-year-old truly sees herself aiming for a career in science. As she presses her parents for further education and broader opportunities, though, it becomes apparent that the deck is stacked against ambitious women striving to enter “men’s” professions. Her luck changes unexpectedly when the epic hurricane that levels the city of Galveston blows into her life a pair of survivors, who nudge Calpurnia closer to her dream. Her cranky older cousin Aggie, living with the Tates until her parents rebuild their home, teaches Calpurnia how to type, how to salt money away in a bank, and most stunningly, how to deceive and rebel against parents. Dr. Pritzker, a veterinarian, sets up a new practice in Calpunia’s community and comes to rely on Calpurnia’s assistance at ever more complicated medical interventions. Calpurnia, despite her lofty plans for the future, is no feisty fictional anachronism, but a thoughtful adolescent who is fully aware that years still span her present and future, and the best she can do for now is to shove her foot through every door that opens even a crack. As she squabbles here with her siblings, perturbs her parents, and conspires with her brother Travis in the care of wild animals, readers can only hope Kelly is preparing another installment that will guide Calpurnia toward a career befitting her talents.